Introduction
Rewards credit cards aren’t just for adults with stable incomes—they’re also available to students who want to earn cashback, perks, and bonuses on everyday spending. Students spend regularly on dining, groceries, transportation, streaming services, and school essentials, which makes reward-based cards especially valuable.
The challenge? Not all student credit cards offer strong rewards, and some have confusing structures or low earning rates. This article highlights the best student credit cards for rewards in 2025, comparing categories, cashback percentages, and benefits to help you choose the perfect card for maximizing value.
1. Why Students Should Consider Rewards Cards
Rewards cards aren’t just about earning money back—they help students manage expenses strategically.
1.1 Earn Cashback on Regular Spending
You earn cashback on purchases you’re already making:
- Food
- Entertainment
- Groceries
- School supplies
- Gas or rideshare
- Subscriptions
1.2 Build Accountability
Tracking rewards encourages mindful spending.
1.3 Get More Value for Everyday Life
Rewards can help pay for textbooks, travel, or emergencies.
2. Best Student Credit Cards for Rewards in 2025
2.1 Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Card
Best overall rewards card for students
This is one of the highest-earning student cards available.
Key Features
- 3% cashback on dining
- 3% cashback on entertainment
- 3% cashback on grocery stores
- 3% cashback on streaming services
- 1% cashback on everything else
- No annual fee
Why It’s Great
Students often spend heavily on food, entertainment, and streaming, which makes this card an incredibly rewarding option.
2.2 Discover it® Student Cash Back
Best rotating rewards for maximum earning potential
Discover’s rotating quarterly categories allow students to earn high rewards throughout the year.
Key Features
- 5% cashback on rotating categories
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- First-year cashback match
- No annual fee
Why It’s Great
Categories often include Amazon, restaurants, gas, and grocery shopping—making it easy for students to earn maximum cashback.
2.3 Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards for Students
Best customizable rewards
This card gives you freedom to choose your top earning category.
Key Features
- 3% cashback in your chosen category (online shopping, gas, dining, drugstores, etc.)
- 2% cashback at grocery stores
- 1% cashback everywhere else
- No annual fee
Why It’s Great
Online shopping is a major category for students, and this card covers it with high earning potential.
2.4 Chase Freedom® Student Card
Best simplicity for students new to rewards
Key Features
- 1% cashback on all purchases
- $50 bonus after first purchase
- No annual fee
Why It’s Great
Simple, consistent earnings with no need to track categories.
3. How to Maximize Rewards as a Student
3.1 Use Your Card for Everyday Purchases
The more eligible purchases you make (within your budget), the more rewards you earn.
3.2 Pay Off Your Balance Monthly
Interest destroys the value of rewards—always pay in full.
3.3 Take Advantage of Bonus Categories
If your card offers rotating or customizable categories, plan your spending accordingly.
3.4 Combine Rewards With Student Discounts
Double up by using:
- Student discounts
- Cashback apps
- Promo codes
3.5 Track Your Rewards
Many apps and card dashboards help students track and redeem rewards.
Conclusion
Rewards credit cards can be powerful tools for students when used responsibly. Options like the Capital One SavorOne, Discover it Student Cash Back, and Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards offer high earning potential on everyday spending.
Choose a card that matches your spending habits and enjoy cashback that helps you save money while building credit.